The Calgary Flames have already taken a hit in free agency, and it’s Ryan Lomberg who’s on the move.
Lomberg, 31, is headed to the Columbus Blue Jackets on a two-year deal with a $1.3 million cap hit, according to an announcement from his agency, Bartlett Hockey, on social media.
Cup champ Ryan Lomberg heading to @BlueJacketsNHL on a 2-year deal! #BHfamily
- Bartlett Hockey (@BartlettHockey) July 1, 2026
For Calgary, it marks the first departure of the offseason. It also brings a quick end to what had been a busy stretch for Craig Conroy and the Flames, who came out of the draft with top prospect Carson Carels and Jarome Iginla’s son Joe added to the organization.
Lomberg had spent the last two seasons with the Flames, carving out a depth role and winning over plenty of fans along the way. He wasn’t brought in to pile up points, and he didn’t.
In 137 games with Calgary, he recorded seven goals and 22 points. What he did bring was a willingness to make life miserable for opponents, and that edge made him a useful piece.
The Richmond Hill native’s NHL path has circled back to Calgary before. He began his career with the Flames during the 2015-16 season, then left for the Florida Panthers in 2020. While in Florida, he was part of the team that captured its first Stanley Cup in franchise history, beating the Edmonton Oilers in 2024.
After that championship run, he returned to the Flames on a two-year deal carrying a $2 million cap hit, a contract that expired on Wednesday.
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Flames Just Made A Veteran Trade That Says Plenty About The Plan
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In return, Calgary brought back defenseman Jake Middleton and a package of picks that helps stock the future pipeline, giving the club more options as it continues to recalibrate. For a team still sorting out its next phase, the deal fits the broader picture: add assets, keep some salary space in check, and keep the door open for more movement if the right opportunity comes along. [Read more 🡒]